Sustainable Municipal Solid Waste Management Strategies and Practices: A review

Abstract

Purpose: This paper introduces a multi-period, multi-objective model for creating an integrated, sustainable municipal solid waste management supply chain. The model includes source separation and a reward-penalty mechanism, aiming to minimize total system costs, greenhouse gas emissions, and environmental impacts on residential areas. Many countries strive to develop efficient solid waste management systems (SWMS) that handle and dispose of daily waste cost-effectively while maintaining sustainability. These systems include waste sources, collection stations, landfills, incinerators, recycling plants, and a transportation network. Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted on existing literature from various studies. Recent studies were used for this systematic review of sustainable municipal solid waste management strategies and practices. Findings: Decision-makers must design or reconfigure a sustainable MSWM to determine the optimal supply chain network for treating and disposing of daily waste effectively. This paper suggests sustainable waste management strategies and practices from various countries, aiming to determine the best number and locations for facilities and optimal waste flow within the system to minimize daily costs. The primary contribution of this review is the theoretical development of sustainable MSWM practices applicable worldwide. Unique contribution to theory, policy and practice: Cooperation between the private and public sectors involved in solid waste management and the circular economy is imperative to ensure the technical, financial, and social sustainability of waste management systems. Large-scale awareness programs on solid waste management and the circular economy should be implemented, focusing on fostering environmentally responsible behaviors and attitudes, promoting sorting, selective collection, and the recovery of materials and energy from waste.